Cottage cheese cake

The cottage cheese cake is a dessert that perfectly combines the fluffy texture of the dough with the creamy and flavorful filling, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. This simple yet delicious recipe will help you create a dessert that will impress everyone. So, let's get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12-16

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 4 large eggs
- 9 tablespoons of oil (choose a neutral-flavored oil, such as sunflower oil)
- 9 tablespoons of sugar (you can use brown sugar for a caramelized taste)
- 340 g of flour (preferably white flour type 000)
- 250 ml of yogurt or a glass of milk mixed with 3 tablespoons of sour cream
- 1 packet of baking powder
- Vanilla (vanilla extract or vanilla sugar)
- Juice of one lemon (to add a note of freshness)

For the filling:
- 600-700 g of sweet cottage cheese (make sure it is well drained)
- 6 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 2 tablespoons of semolina (this helps thicken the filling)
- 2-3 eggs (used to bind the filling)
- 100 g of raisins (optional, but adds extra flavor)
- Flavors to taste (you can use lemon or orange zest for a more intense taste)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until you obtain a frothy and light-colored mixture. This step is essential, as the incorporated air will make the dough fluffy. Gradually add the oil while continuously mixing to avoid separating the ingredients. Then, add the yogurt or the milk mixed with sour cream, stirring gently.

Step 2: Adding the dry ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder, vanilla, and lemon juice. Sift the flour mixture over the wet composition, gently mixing with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the air in the dough. The final consistency should be similar to that of thick sour cream.

Step 3: Preparing the filling
In another bowl, mash the cottage cheese with a fork to make it creamier. Add the sugar, semolina, beaten eggs, and raisins. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. If you want a more intense flavor, you can add lemon or orange zest.

Step 4: Assembling the cake
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking tray with oil and line it with flour to prevent sticking. Pour the dough into the tray, leveling it with a spatula. Then, using a spoon, add the cheese filling in equal mounds, leaving spaces between them to allow for expansion during baking.

Step 5: Baking
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown on top and a tester inserted in the middle comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Serving
Once cooled, cut the cake into squares, ensuring that each serving contains a mound of cheese. You can serve the cake plain or dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant look. It is delicious both warm and cold, making it perfect alongside a fragrant tea or coffee.

Useful tips
- Cottage cheese: Choose fresh, well-drained cottage cheese to avoid a too-wet filling. You can also use ricotta cheese for a finer variant.
- Raisins: If you don't like raisins, you can replace them with dried cherries or omit this ingredient altogether.
- Flavors: Experiment with different flavors, such as almond essence or cinnamon, to give a special taste.
- Variations: You can transform this cottage cheese cake recipe into a seasonal dessert by adding fresh fruits, such as blueberries or peaches, to the filling.

Nutritional benefits
This cottage cheese cake is an excellent source of protein due to the cheese and eggs, while yogurt or milk provides essential calcium. Semolina brings complex carbohydrates, offering long-lasting energy. It is a recipe that, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can the cake be frozen?
Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure it is completely cooled and cut into portions before wrapping it in plastic wrap and storing it in special freezer bags.

2. What should I do if the filling is too wet?
You can add a little more semolina or flour to thicken the filling. Also, ensure that the cottage cheese is well drained.

3. How can I improve the texture of the cake?
Beat the eggs and sugar for a few extra minutes to incorporate more air. This will make the cake fluffier.

In conclusion, the cottage cheese cake is a versatile and delicious dessert that is easy to prepare. With every bite, you will feel an explosion of flavors and textures, and each serving will be a true delight. Don't hesitate to experiment and add your personal touch! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: For the dough: 4 eggs, 9 tablespoons of oil, 9 tablespoons of sugar, 340 g of flour, 250 ml of yogurt or a glass of milk with 3 tablespoons of sour cream, 1 packet of baking powder, vanilla, and lemon juice. For the filling: 600-700 g of sweet cottage cheese, 6 tablespoons of sugar, 2 tablespoons of semolina, 2-3 eggs, 100 g of raisins, flavors to taste.